In the latest video, Ryan discusses the recent 1,000-player server meshing test for Star Citizen, where the initial configuration of six servers experienced a crash after 35-45 minutes, but overall performance was reported as significantly improved. He also updates viewers on the Alpha 3.24.2 patches, which include gameplay adjustments, visual enhancements, and bug fixes, while expressing excitement for upcoming events like CitizenCon.
In the latest video, Ryan, also known as Mac, discusses the recent developments in Star Citizen, particularly focusing on the new 3.24.2 patches and the latest tech preview test conducted by Cloud Imperium. The test aimed to evaluate the stability and performance of the Replication Messaging Queue (RMQ) service and server meshing. Initially, the test began with one dedicated game server and 100 players, but it quickly escalated to six servers and a total of 1,000 players. Unfortunately, after approximately 35-45 minutes, the higher configuration encountered a hybrid crash, leading the team to revert to a lower configuration of four servers and 500 players for the remainder of the test.
Despite the crash at higher player counts, there were positive outcomes from the test. Participants reported significantly better overall performance when the player count was at 1,000, indicating that the optimizations implemented were effective. The team received valuable data from the test, confirming that their optimizations worked well, although they acknowledged the need to address the hybrid crash issue. The developers are already aware of the necessary fixes and plan to conduct further tests once these adjustments are made.
In addition to the tech preview test, Ryan updated viewers on the latest Alpha 3.24.2 patches. The first patch, released on October 2nd, included various gameplay adjustments, such as reverting boost speed reductions and implementing default options for new ship settings. Notably, the patch also introduced visual polish for weapons and items, alongside several bug fixes, including resolutions for client and server crashes.
A subsequent Alpha 3.24.2 build was released, featuring further gameplay enhancements and bug fixes. Improvements included visual updates for character customization, adjustments to UI elements, and refinements to weapon mechanics. Cloud Imperium is actively working to prepare Alpha 3.24.2 for release while simultaneously stress-testing the technology required for Alpha 4.0.
As the year progresses towards CitizenCon, Ryan emphasizes the excitement surrounding the upcoming events and the potential for new gameplay experiences. He encourages viewers to engage with the community through his Twitch channel and expresses gratitude to his patrons and channel members for their support. Overall, the video highlights a mix of challenges and achievements in the ongoing development of Star Citizen, with optimism for future updates and tests.